Kupwara,Oct,13:In a major stride towards promoting sustainable agriculture and farmer empowerment, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara on Monday organized a Training-cum-Awareness Program for the Hatchmarg Farmers Producer Organization (FPO). The initiative focused on advanced agricultural practices, sustainability, and market linkages, drawing participation from over 100 farmers from the Hatchmarg belt.
The program was formally inaugurated by Shrikant Balasaheb Suse (IAS), Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Speaking to the gathering, the DC emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening Kupwara’s agrarian economy.
“Equipping farmers with knowledge and modern techniques is essential for achieving agricultural self-reliance. Such programmes support high-value crops and sustainable practices aligned with national schemes like PM-Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana,” he remarked.
Prof.Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, attended as the Guest of Honour and highlighted the university’s continued support to farmers through technology transfer and access to government-backed schemes. She encouraged FPOs to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between research institutions and grassroots farming communities.
Earlier, Prof. Kaiser Mohi-ud-Din Malik Malik, Professor and Head, KVK Kupwara, delivered the welcome address, outlining the objectives of the program and reaffirming KVK’s commitment to grassroots agricultural development.
Scientific experts from various disciplines including plant protection, horticulture, and soil science demonstrated hands-on sessions on precision farming, organic inputs, and climate-resilient crop varieties. The interactive workshops and Q&A sessions encouraged farmers to discuss local challenges and share their experiences.
A participant from Hatchmarg FPO said,
“This training has given us practical tools to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen our collective efforts as a farming community.”
Agricultural inputs were also distributed among farmers under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) to support on-ground implementation of the discussed practices.
Conducted under the aegis of SKUAST-Kashmir’s Directorate of Extension, the programme aligns with the National Farmer Skilling Mission and the District Agriculture Development Plan. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the KVK Kupwara team, reaffirming their dedication to continued farmer outreach and innovation-driven growth in the district’s agriculture sector.
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